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Striking Boeing machinists losing company-paid health care coverage

Monday marked the 18th day of the strike and the final day the machinists had company-paid health care.

EVERETT, Wash. — Striking Boeing machinists are at risk of losing their company-paid health care as their standoff with the aerospace company continues. 

Monday, Sept. 30 marked the 18th day of the strike and the last day of their employee health and insurance coverages.

Boeing told KING 5 that company-paid health care benefits will end for striking employees and their covered family members effective end of day September 30.

Union members on the picket line Monday said despite the loss of insurance and income, they are not giving in anytime soon. 

"I'm 50 years old. I've been working since I was 16," said Robert Silverman, a striking Boeing employee. "I've been saving for a long time. From day one in my hiring process, they told us about this day, they said to be ready."

According to Boeing's website, people who return to work during the strike on or after Oct. 1 will have their coverages "reinstated prospectively as of the return-to-work date." That process, according to the company, could take up to 10 business days and claims may need to be resubmitted. 

"I got money that I saved up through the last ten years to pay for my medical," said Euel Atkinson. "I have diabetes and I have slightly high blood pressure, no big deal, but medication, that costs money."

Workers can also apply for health and dental insurance through Washington Healthplanfinder. Senate Bill 5632, which passed in the 2024 legislative session, provides workers who lose health care coverage due to a labor dispute a 60-day enrollment period before and after employer coverage ends to find a health care plan.

The strike continues after the International Association of Machinists rejected Boeing's latest proposal that was deemed the "best and final offer." That included a 30% wage increase over four years, $6,000 ratification bonus, reinstated performance bonuses and a 100% match on 401(k) contributions up to 8%.

"We do the majority of building these aircrafts, we are the money," said Robert Silverman, a Boeing employee on the picket line. "Treat us fair, we aren't asking for anything special, just fair."

The union previously stated their goals included a 40% wage increase over the length of the new contract, reinstatement of a pension program and better healthcare options. 

Economic analysts estimate the strike has cost Boeing more than half a billion in revenue. 

CEO Kelly Ortberg has implemented rolling furloughs. Selected employees will take one week of furlough every four weeks for the duration of the strike. 

Executive pay was also cut by 25%. The company issued a hiring freeze and travel restrictions.

Boeing sent a statement Monday that said:

"We remain committed to resetting our relationship with our represented employees and negotiating in good faith and want to reach an agreement as soon as possible. We are prepared to meet at any time."

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